SHORT ANSWER:
The Supreme Court's ruling in SR Bommai v. Union of India (1994) limited the arbitrary use of Article 356, which allows the central government to dismiss state governments.
DETAILS:
- The court established that the use of Article 356 must be based on objective criteria and not merely on political considerations.
- It emphasized that the Governor's role should be to act on the advice of the council of ministers, reinforcing the federal structure.
- The ruling provided guidelines for the appointment and removal of governors, ensuring they act within constitutional limits.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- Misuse of Article 356 can lead to judicial review and reinstatement of dismissed state governments.
SOURCE:
- Constitution of India, Article 356; Supreme Court Judgments.
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